Online survey asks bicyclists to rate Tennessee roads

As interest in bicycle and pedestrian transit increases, the Tennessee Department of Transportation is moving forward with its long-range, multi-modal transportation plan.

Part of PlanGo, the 25-year initiative launched in 2005, includes getting a feel (via a new online survey open until Oct. 30) for how cyclists rate their experiences bicycling on the state’s highways.

The results will be used as TDOT officials work to update the state bike route network.

Input from the survey will help guide the department in developing a comprehensive bicycling network, assessing state routes with respect to bicycle suitability, and determining future action items relevant to furthering the goals of TDOT’s Bicycle and Pedestrian plan.

Transportation statistics show that over 40 percent of all trips in the United States are two miles or less. That means good walking and bicycling options are integral to the growth and success of communities.

In the last five years, the state has made major improvements in bicycle connectivity. This year, Tennessee jumped 19 positions in the annual ranking of Bicycle Friendly States by the League of American Cyclists, from 43rd to 24th.